Want Both an Elopement and a Wedding Reception? A Minimony Makes It Possible

If you’ve been torn between the intimacy of an elopement and the celebration of a full wedding, a minimony might be the perfect solution. A minimony is a two-part wedding: a small, intimate ceremony followed by a separate reception. The reception may happen the same day or weeks later. Minimonies are ideal for couples who want the meaning and calm of an elopement, without giving up the joy of celebrating with a larger group.

I’m Kara, a Virginia-based wedding and elopement photographer with nearly a decade of experience photographing minimonies, elopements, and intimate weddings across Shenandoah National Park, the Blue Ridge Mountains, Roanoke, and North Carolina. I help couples plan minimony timelines that prioritize connection, beautiful light, and a stress-free experience—without sacrificing great photos or meaningful moments.

If you’re planning a Virginia minimony—from a private ceremony in Shenandoah to a backyard celebration near Roanoke—I’d love to help you design and photograph a day that feels intentional and true to you. Inquire here to check availability or explore my engagement and wedding photography to see what working together looks like.

Why Have a Minimony?

A minimony gives you the best of both worlds: the meaningful, private experience of an elopement and the lively atmosphere of a bigger party. Here are a few reasons why couples are choosing this unique wedding format:

1. Less Stress, More Meaning – Many couples find that a traditional wedding day can feel overwhelming. With a minimony, you can focus on your vows and the emotions of the moment without worrying about a packed schedule or guest list logistics.
2. Flexibility – Whether you want to have your minimony in the same location as your reception or plan a destination elopement followed by a celebration at home, you have complete freedom to design your wedding experience.
3. Budget Control – Splitting your wedding into two events allows you to allocate your budget more intentionally. You can invest in the details that matter most for your ceremony and then plan a reception that fits your desired style, whether it’s a backyard gathering or a formal ballroom event.
4. A Unique Experience for You and Your Guests – Guests at your reception can enjoy the excitement of celebrating your marriage, even if they weren’t present at your ceremony. This also allows you to incorporate creative elements like showing a video of your elopement or displaying photos from your intimate ceremony.

How to Plan a Minimony

One of the best things about a minimony is that it’s completely customizable. Here are a few ways my couples have celebrated theirs:

• Same-Day Ceremony + Reception: Say your vows in a quiet, private setting for the morning, then join your guests for a reception that evening.
• Weekend Ceremony + Celebration: Have an intimate ceremony on Friday or Saturday, then throw a bigger party the next day.
• Destination Elopement + Hometown Reception: Elope in a dream location, then return home to celebrate with extended family and friends.

Is a Minimony Right for You?

If you love the idea of an intimate wedding but don’t want to give up the chance to celebrate with a larger group, a minimony could be the perfect fit. Whether you choose to have both events in the same weekend or space them out over time, this format allows you to create a meaningful wedding experience that reflects your priorities.